GRAND ISLAND, NE – The Central Platte Natural Resources District (CPNRD) is seeking community volunteers to assist with the 2026 Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival, scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Central Community College and College Park in Grand Island.
The annual festival will welcome 800 fifth-grade students from across Nebraska for a full day of hands-on learning focused on groundwater, conservation, and natural resources. Students rotate through interactive sessions led by natural resource professionals, reinforcing classroom lessons while highlighting the importance of protecting Nebraska’s water resources.
To ensure a smooth and engaging experience for students, CPNRD is looking for volunteers to fill a variety of important roles throughout the day.
Volunteer opportunities include:
- Classroom guides, who escort student groups between scheduled activities and help keep sessions on track
- Activity assistants, who support presenters by helping distribute materials and prepare for each session
- Registration and general support, assisting with event coordination and logistics
“Volunteers are essential to the success of the Groundwater Festival,” said Marcia Lee, Information and Education Specialist with CPNRD. “They help create a positive, organized experience so students can focus on learning and having fun.”
The Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival, established in 1985, is the longest-running event of its kind and has educated more than 33,000 students. It brings together dozens of natural resource professionals and community volunteers each year to provide meaningful, hands-on education about groundwater and the environment.
Individuals, businesses, civic groups, and high school students in need of service hours are encouraged to participate. Volunteers can assist for part of the day or the full event, with opportunities to earn up to eight service hours.
“Whether you can give a few hours or the entire day, your time makes a difference,” Lee added. “It’s a rewarding way to support youth education and groundwater awareness in our communities.”
Those interested in volunteering or learning more about the festival can visit cpnrd.org and select the Education link or contact the Central Platte NRD office at (308) 385-6282.
